How to Create TAO Subnets - Easy Steps

Creating a TAO subnet on the Bittensor network is an exciting way to build and experiment with blockchain infrastructure. Whether you're running tests locally or preparing for mainnet deployment, the process is methodical and rewarding. In this guide, we’ll walk through each step—from local testing to full mainchain registration—so you can confidently launch your own subnet.

Creating a Local Subnet

Before going live, it’s smart to start in a local environment. This is your development playground where you can tweak incentive logic, try things out, and make mistakes without consequences.

Start by setting up the Bittensor subnet template. You'll need to install all the required dependencies, configure your environment, and initialise your node. Make sure you build the node with the --features pow-faucet flag—this enables the built-in faucet so you can mint test tokens later.

Next, create a wallet using the Bittensor CLI. If you already have one, feel free to reuse it. Once your wallet is ready, use the faucet to mint test TAO. These tokens aren’t real—they're just for testing on your local subnet—but you'll still need them to complete the registration process.

To register your subnet, use the btcli subnet create command. Specify the local chain as your endpoint and unlock your wallet with your password. If everything’s in order, your subnet will be assigned a netuid (a unique identifier), starting from 1.

Keep in mind: on the local chain, you can register up to eight subnets. If you try to create more, the one with the lowest staked TAO will automatically be replaced. This limit keeps things manageable during local testing.

Lastly, avoid connecting to any public subtensor nodes while testing locally. Your local node should remain isolated for accurate development and debugging.

Read Also: TAO Bittensor Roadmap 2025 - Future Development

Moving to the Testchain

Once things are running smoothly locally, it’s time to move to the testchain—a public testnet that mimics the behaviour of the mainchain but uses fake tokens.

Set up your wallet if you haven't already. Then, check the current subnet creation cost using the burn-cost command. The base cost is usually 100 test TAO, but this can fluctuate depending on how many people are registering subnets at the same time.

Unlike the local setup, there’s no built-in faucet here. You’ll need to request a test TAO from the Bittensor community—Discord is usually the best place to do this. Once you’ve got enough, you’re good to go.

Use the same subnet creation command, but this time target the testchain. You'll be prompted to enter your wallet details and confirm the transaction. If successful, your subnet will go live on the testchain with its own netuid.

Here’s a nice perk: when you deregister your subnet, your test TAO will be returned. This refund mechanism encourages experimentation without wasting resources.

The testchain is your last stop before going live. It gives you a realistic, public environment to refine your code and see how your subnet behaves under real network conditions.

Deploying to the Mainchain

After thorough testing, you’re ready to deploy on the mainchain—Bittensor’s production environment where real TAO is used and real value is at stake.

Set up your wallet one final time if needed. Then, use the burn-cost command to check the current price for registering a subnet. Just like on the testchain, the cost typically starts at 100 TAO, but may rise depending on network demand.

To create your mainnet subnet, run the same command, but point it at the mainchain. Unlock your wallet, confirm the transaction, and if everything goes smoothly, you’ll receive your netuid.

The TAO used during this step isn’t permanently lost—it’s locked up and can be returned if you deregister the subnet later. This means you need enough TAO for initial deployment, but you won’t be burning tokens permanently.

Once live, your subnet becomes part of the Bittensor ecosystem. Miners and validators can join, and your incentive logic will play out in a real environment. Be sure your code is solid—any issues at this point could hurt your reputation or functionality.

Following the full local → testchain → mainchain path gives your subnet the best chance for success. Each phase helps catch bugs, refine logic, and optimize performance before you stake real assets and go public.

Conclusion

Launching a TAO subnet on Bittensor doesn’t have to be complicated. With a methodical approach—starting local, progressing to the testchain, and finally deploying to the mainchain—you can ensure your subnet is stable, functional, and ready for real users. It’s a great way to contribute to the Bittensor ecosystem while learning more about decentralised infrastructure. And if you're looking for a user-friendly place to manage your crypto journey, platforms like Bitrue can make the entire process even easier.

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FAQ

1. What is a subnet in Bittensor?
A subnet is a modular blockchain within the Bittensor network, where users define their own rules for how miners and validators interact.

2. Can I skip the local or testchain phases?
You can, but it’s not recommended. Testing locally and on the testchain helps avoid costly errors when you eventually move to the mainchain.

3. Do I lose my TAO when registering a subnet on mainchain?
No. Your TAO is returned to you once you deregister the subnet. It’s a temporary cost to ensure commitment, not a permanent loss.